The Pros and Cons of Touchscreen Laptops

Many people believe that it is only a matter of time before all systems– desktops, laptops and everything in between– use only a touchscreen interface. Especially since you spend all day touching and typing away on your smartphone, it would seem only logical that this same ease and convenience would apply to a new laptop as well. While some of these benefits do translate well to a tablet or desktop, laptops can be a different animal altogether.

Even though it seems as though all of the latest (and certainly the most expensive) new laptops have a touchscreen, the way people use a laptop does not always fit well into a touchscreen interface. But manufacturers and major software developers will continue to develop new ways to make this technology necessary until they finally get their way.

That is not to say that a touchscreen laptop does not have a number of useful benefits, but the question now is whether or not it is completely necessary. While it is becoming more and more clear that all computers will incorporate a touchscreen at some point, it is unclear whether or not we have reached that point just yet.

This article is designed to help you decide whether or not you should buy a model with touch capability when you make your next laptop purchase. Of course the final decision will come down to your own individual preferences, but there are some clear pros and cons of touchscreen laptops that should be considered before making the investment.

The Pros

According to Microsoft and all the friendly sales people at the computer store, the clearest benefit to having a touchscreen laptop is convenience. Since Microsoft’s last few operating systems have clearly been designed for touch, this is the case with some programs. However, Windows 10 does still have the traditional Start Menu and desktop option, so it is possible to stick with the old touchpad and arrow method.

But if you really want to get the most of the latest Microsoft applications, you will be much better off with a touchscreen. The latest touchscreens also provide higher resolution and better graphics, which can be important for anyone who plans to play games or watch movies on the computer.

Another clear benefit is the flexibility that comes with having both touch and traditional usage options. Since it may seem better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it, many people will go with a touchscreen just to have the option of using it. Since we are already so used to touchscreen smartphones, adjusting to touching your computer is no big leap at all.

The Cons

While the technology is headed in the touch direction, there are still some drawbacks to having a touchscreen on your laptop, not least of which is the price. Compared to a traditional laptop, a touchscreen model will cost at least $200-300 more.

When looking at 2017 laptop reviews for touchscreen laptops, make sure that they take the price into account as well as technical specs. Additionally, we all know how delicate touchscreen devices can be, and you may end up paying even more in repairs and replacement parts.

A touchscreen also adds weight to a laptop. This may seem unimportant, but any student or professional who carries a laptop regularly will quickly realize how much of a difference a half of a pound makes. Similarly, the battery on a touchscreen device can drain 15 to 25 percent more quickly which can cause obvious problems for those on the go.

The Verdict

Just like any new technology, a touchscreen laptop will have several benefits but also some drawbacks. If you are undecided and price is not the biggest concern, you should probably go with a touchscreen. Even if we are not quite there yet, all computer technology seems to be moving in that direction, and it never hurts to be ahead of the curve.

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